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~ Relocation Specialist ~ Page | 1 ASIAN TIGERS MOBILITY Welcome to Thailand! We have put together a brief guide to life in Bangkok for you, and we sincerely hope that you will find it a useful point of reference both during your preview trip and once you arrive here and are settling in to your new residence. There is varied information contained here about housing, schooling and medical services, Thai culture, and useful references for your daily needs. We sincerely hope that you enjoy your time here. Our company details: Asian Tigers Mobility Ltd., 3388/77 Sirinrat Building, 21 st Floor, Rama IV Road, Klongton, Klongtoey, Bangkok 10110, Thailand Phone: :+(66-2) 687 7961 Email: [email protected] Website: www.asiantigers-mobility.com/thailand

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Page 1: ASIAN TIGERS MOBILITY Tigers Mobility Ltd., 3388/77 Sirinrat Building, 21st Floor, Rama IV Road, ... the city itself has transformed into a modern, cosmopolitan metropolis

~ Relocation Specialist ~

Page | 1

ASIAN TIGERS MOBILITY

Welcome to Thailand! We have put together a brief guide to life in Bangkok for you, and we sincerely hope that you will find it a useful point of reference both during your preview trip and once you arrive

here and are settling in to your new residence.

There is varied information contained here about housing, schooling and medical services, Thai culture, and useful references for your daily needs.

We sincerely hope that you enjoy your time here.

Our company details:

Asian Tigers Mobility Ltd., 3388/77 Sirinrat Building, 21st Floor, Rama IV Road,

Klongton, Klongtoey, Bangkok 10110, Thailand

Phone: :+(66-2) 687 7961

Email: [email protected]

Website: www.asiantigers-mobility.com/thailand

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~ Relocation Specialist ~

Page | 2

CONTENTS PAGE

TOPIC PAGE

Welcome to Thailand 3

Facts about Bangkok 4

Local Culture 5

Cultural Norms: Business and Social 6

Food: Local and International 7

Public Holidays 8

Housing 9

Schools 11

Medical Needs 12

Daily Needs 13

Banking 13

Internet, Telephone and Mobile 14

Utilities 15

Shopping 15

Home Repairs and Domestic Help 16

Networking 17

Transportation 18

Useful Contact Numbers 20

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WELCOME TO THAILAND

THAILAND AT A GLANCE

Thailand, which means the “Land of the Free”, is a land of diverse beauty with hundreds of miles of

coastline, forested mountains, and warm tropical weather. The Thais themselves are true

representatives of the “Land of Smiles”, peaceful, hospitable, and broad-minded people who enjoy

life. Thai culture is influenced greatly by Buddhism, but also incorporates rites from other religions

such as Hinduism and Animism.

Thailand is an emerging economy. Major exports include Thai rice, textiles and footwear, fishery

products, rubber, jewelry, cars, computers and electrical appliances. Thailand is the world's no.1

exporter of rice, and considered a newly industrialized country. Substantial industries include electric

appliances, components, computer parts, cars, and tourism. Thailand is an emerging economy which

is heavily export-dependent, with exports accounting for more than two thirds of gross domestic

product.

Bangkok was established as the capital of Thailand in 1782, and is known in Thai as Krung Thep, which

means “City of Angels”. The full name is actually Krungthepmahanakhon Amonrattanakosin

Mahintharayutthaya Mahadilokphop Noppharatratchathaniburirom Udomratchaniwetmahasathan

Amonphimanawatansathit Sakkathattiyawitsanukamprasit, which loosely translated means city of

angels, great city of immortals, magnificent city of the nine gems, seat of the king, city of royal palaces,

home of gods incarnate, erected by Visvakarman at Indra's behest.

Bangkok is a city of dramatic contrasts. Evidence of the traditional lifestyle can still be seen today while

the city itself has transformed into a modern, cosmopolitan metropolis. Even though the Bangkokian

lifestyle is now faster than the old days, you can still see smiles on people’s faces as they go about their

busy daily schedules.

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~ Relocation Specialist ~

Page | 4

FACTS ABOUT BANGKOK – The Capital of Thailand

With a population of approximately 10 million, Bangkok is a balance of traditions and impulses of a

cosmopolitan life.

Bangkok is a multi-faceted, multi-cultural city and a key part of South East Asia’s booming economy. Visitors

may well remember Bangkok f o r its temples or the magnificence of the King's Grand Palace. For

certain others, Bangkok is all about the exciting nightlife with an extensive choice of entertainment

options set against age-old markets. Many visitors perceive Bangkok as a shopping paradise, or a

fast-emerging Asian capital.

Bangkok is all of the above and more - full of creativity and fun with a keen eye on the future. In

spite of rapid advancements, the Thai nationals never lose sight of their roots: numerous temples

maintain a serene atmosphere with only chants of monks in the background; on the Chao Praya

River or on the remaining canals, sleek boats continue to ferry people and goods just like they

have done for centuries.

THAILAND’S FACTS & FIGURES

Land Area: 513,120 km2

Population: 67,091,089 (2012 estimate)

Government: Parliamentary Democracy and Constitutional Monarchy

Time Zone: UTC/GMT+7 hours

Currency: Thai Baht

Religion: Buddhism

Language: Thai is the official language but English is widely used as unofficial second

language.

Climate: Tropical Monsoon

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LOCAL CULTURE

What makes Thailand well-known among foreigners is its rich culture and warm hospitality. Thailand

has a unique and complex culture, customs, and etiquette which is rooted in diverse and rich

cultural traditions. Thai people are courteous and friendly. However, it is useful to know some basic

social etiquette that may ease your path in social situations.

The “Wai” is a Thai greeting and also used as a gesture of “thanks”. A Wai should always be returned.

If they wai, then you may do the same, or alternatively a slight bow or nod of the head is fine.

The Thai word of greeting or farewell is:

Sawasdee-ka: a woman

Sawasdee-krab: a man

Normally Thai people call or are called by their first name or nickname in daily conversation. In

the office setting or o n formal occasions, the polite Thai word for “you” is “Khun” and you can also

call them “Khun” following by his/her name. However, you do not refer to yourself as ‘Khun.’

In Thailand, the head is considered to be the highest and the feet are the lowest part. Touching

someone’s head is considered disrespectful and should be avoided. Do not place your feet on table

or chair in the public or use your foot to point at anybody or any object.

Buddhist temples are sacred places so you should wear proper attire when visiting these places

and proper manners should be observed. It is prohibited for women to have physical contact with

monks.

Always take your shoes off before you go into somebody’s home.

Try not to raise your voice in work or social environments.

Don’t be offended by direct questions – it’s quite common for Thai people to ask things that you

might not normally be asked back home – for example your age. It’s quite normal here.

Smile a lot. Thai people always smile back.

Try to learn a little bit of Thai – people here will really appreciate the effort

It’s polite to stand for the Royal Anthem which is played before all movies in the cinema. Also in

some public places the National Anthem is played every day at 8am and 6pm. Please do as

those around you – stop for a moment until it finishes.

And most importantly - please remember to never be disrespectful to the Monarchy.

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~ Relocation Specialist ~

Page | 6

CULTURAL NORMS

SOCIAL SETTING

There is a strong hierarchy in Thai society which is evident at many levels. Among other things,

age, social position and wealth affect a person's place in the hierarchy. When Thais meet someone

for the first time, it is not unusual for them to ask several questions in order to establish where they

fit in the hierarchy. These questions may seem very personal to some foreigners but it is best to

accept them in good nature and without affront.

Courtesy is very important to Thais. Being polite and respectful to others is considered indispensable

to maintaining good relations. Speaking softly and smiling warmly will always help to create positive

dealings.

Public displays of emotion are best avoided. In no situation is it considered appropriate to show

anger or a negative emotion. Doing so causes the other person to lose face and will not encourage

sympathy or help from others.

BUSINESS SETTING

Thais prefer to build relationships before conducting business. Therefore, it will be likely that several

meetings will take place to establish a relationship first. Discussing business before establishing

relations is impolite, and often issues will need to be discussed repeatedly and at many levels before

decisions are made.

Body language is important in Thai communication, and respect and politeness should always be

shown. Sit nicely and do not lounge in the chair. Saying no directly is considered impolite and Thais

generally will never do so. Being receptive to subtle body language and indirect replies will help to

avoid confusion and misunderstandings.

Appointments for meetings should be made well in advance. It is a good idea to confirm the details

of the meeting the day before. Arriving on time shows respect, although Thais often have a more

relaxed view of time than is common in the west. Information concerning the agenda, the companies

represented and the persons in attendance should be sent in advance. This will help Thai members

prepare accordingly by knowing the hierarchy of the group. To avoid confusion and

misunderstandings, written material, including business cards, should be provided in Thai and

English. Business cards are generally exchanged after the greetings. A business card should be

offered with the right hand. Take time to read the card and make a polite comment about it.

Business dress is conservative. Suits should be dark or mute coloured. If skirts are worn, they should

be knee-length or longer. The shoulders should always be covered.

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FOOD

LOCAL FOOD

Thai food is a primary delight for foreigners. Authentic, local cuisine, with its distinctive taste and

enthusiastic use of fresh herbs and spices, is available at inexpensive street stalls as well as more

pricy gourmet restaurants.

Top 10 Thai dishes you should try while you’re here:

Tom yam goong (hot and spicy shrimp soup)

Pad thai (the famous Thai dry noodle dish)

Kuay tiew (noodle soup)

Som tam (spicy papaya salad)

Gai med ma moung (chicken and cashew nuts)

Kang kheaw whan gai (green curry chicken)

Tom kha gai (chicken and coconut sup)

Kao phad (fried rice)

Massaman curry (made with beef, potatoes, peanuts and coconut milk)

Khao man gai (chicken and rice)

INTERNATIONAL FOOD

All over the world, the enjoyment of food is considered a significant aspect of the enjoyment of life.

Thailand's famous cuisine and its people's unquestionable passion for food is a proud testament to

this philosophy. Thailand also offers an impressive choice of international ethnic food as well as

international fast food chains. Thailand features numerous foreign eateries that serve European,

Middle Eastern, Chinese, French, Italian, etc. This country is truly a paradise for the gastronomist.

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THAI PUBLIC HOLIDAYS 1 January New Year's Day

Full moon, 3rd Thai lunar month (February)

Makha Bucha Day

Commemorates the teachings of Buddha

6 April Chakri Memorial Day

Commemorates the establishment of the Chakri Dynasty

13 April – 15 April Songkran Festival Celebrates the Thai New Year

5 May Coronation Day

Commemorates the coronation of King Bhumibol Adulyadej in 1950.

May, arbitrary date Royal Ploughing Ceremony

A ceremony giving blessings to Thailand’s farmers

Full moon, 6th Thai lunar month (May)

Vesak

Buddhist observance commemorating the birth, enlightenment and passing of the Buddha. Also observed as National Tree Day.

Full moon, 8th Thai lunar month (July)

Asalha Puja

Buddhist observance commemorating the Buddha's first discourse

First waning moon, 8th Thai lunar month (July)

Beginning of Vassa

Buddhist observance marking the beginning of Vassa, also known as Buddhist Lent

12 August

HM the Queen's Birthday

Commemorates the birthday of Queen Sirikit in 1932

23 October Chulalongkorn Day

Commemorates the passing of King Chulalongkorn in 1910.

5 December HM the King's Birthday

Commemorates the birthday of King Bhumibol Adulyadej in 1927. Also observed as National Day and National Father's Day.

10 December Constitution Day Commemorates the promulgation of the first permanent constitution in 1932.

31 December

New Year's Eve

Final day of the Gregorian year.

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HOUSING

TEMPORARY ACCOMMODATION

For expats, who do not know the length of their assignments, hotels and serviced apartments can

be a good option. These properties can be rented on a short-term basis and basic necessities, such

as kitchenware are often provided. You will also not have to worry about cleaning service, internet,

etc. as they will be provided inclusive of the rental.

PERMANENT HOUSING

Below is the list of the locations of the main expatriate residential areas in Bangkok.

Sukhumvit area: The most well-known and largest expatriate residential area, with a wide range

of accommodation options, amenities, several International schools and easy access to both public

transport and the expressways.

Chaengwattana area: Chaengwattana Road, to the North of the city, leads to a very large

expatriate gated community called Nichada Thani, which has amenities to cover most needs;

a school (American curriculum), clubhouse, clinic, mini shops and so on. It takes around 40-60

minutes by expressway from Nichada Thani to the downtown area, depending on traffic.

Bangna area: This area is located to the South East of the city, and is convenient for the airport. The

skytrain now extends into the area making access easier. This is where Bangkok Patana and a

couple of other International schools are located.

Sathorn area: This area is the location of a lot of Embassies, and is where a lot of the larger companies

and banks and so on have their headquarters. There are still some good options in terms of housing

around here, and is quite popular with the French community in particular.

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DIFFERENT TYPES OF HOUSING

Properties for rent are of 3 types : stand-alone houses, town-houses and apartments/condos.

Apartments are usually fully furnished while houses/townhouses are generally unfurnished. Curtains

and wardrobes are provided. Kitchens are usually equipped with cooking sets and white goods; stoves

and exhaust hood, an oven and refrigerator, washing machines and sometimes dryers.

The rental fee of serviced apartments is inclusive of utility charge and housekeeping service while

long-term leases do not provide those under the rent. Residents may directly pay government utility

and telephone bills or sometimes pay fixed rates issued by the building’s property management.

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SCHOOLS

INTERNATIONAL SCHOOLS

There are several international schools in Bangkok the following are some of the most popular:

Bangkok Patana School (BPS) : British Curriculum

Address : 2/38 Soi Lasalle, Sukhumvit 105

Tel: +66-2398-0200

BPS offers a broad, balanced curriculum which follows the National Curriculum of England. BPS

is registered with the UK Department of Education and Employment, and is a member of the

International Baccalaureate Organization, Cambridge University International Examinations

Syndicate, and EdExcel, the UK GCSE examinations body.

Age range: 2½ - 18+ years

General Information: http://www.patana.ac.th

International School Bangkok (ISB) : American Curriculum

Address : 39/7 Soi Nichada Thani, Samakee Road, Pakkred, Nonthaburi 11120

Tel: +66-2963- 5800

ISB's curriculum is based on the highest North American standards enriched to promote

international perspectives. The International Baccalaureate (IB) progarmme at ISB is the first

in Thailand.

Age range: 4 – 18 years

General Information: http://www.isb.ac.th

New International School of Thailand (NIST) : UN accredited

Address : 36 Soi 15 Sukhumvit Road Klongton Nua, Wattana Bangkok 10110

Tel: +66-2651- 2065

Staff at the UN agencies in Bangkok were directly instrumental in setting up the Foundation for

International Education and establishing NIST. The school has dual accreditation with ECIS

and NEASC. NIST is affiliated with the International Baccalaureate Organization and has a

rigorous and fully international curriculum incorporating the IB Primary Years Programme, the

IB Middle Years Programme and culminating in the IB diploma.

Age range: 2-18 years

General Information: http://www.nist.ac.th

Shrewsbury International School : British Curriculum

Address : 1922 Charoen Krung Road, Wat Praya Krai, Bangkholame, Bangkok 10120

Tel: +66-2657-1888

A new purpose-built riverside school and campus model on its parent and partner school in

England. Individual skills, interests and abilities are encourages. All teachers are native English

speakers and the majorities are British.Age range: 3 – 18 years

General Information: www.shrewsbury.ac.th

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MEDICAL NEEDS

PRIVATE HOSPITALS

Thailand has state-of-the-art medical facilities recognized worldwide. Please find below a list of the

main International hospitals in Bangkok:

Bangkok Hospital, 2 Soi Soonvijai 7, New Petchburi Road Bangkapi, Huay Khwang Bangkok 10310

Providing comprehensive medical care by multidisciplinary teams of well- trained specialists.

They have group hospitals named Bangkok Heart Hospital and Wattanosoth Cancer Hospital.

Website: www.bangkokhospital.com

BNH Hospital, 9/1 Convent Road, Silom, Bangkok 10500

The BNH Hospital, formerly known as the Bangkok Nursing Home Hospital, was established

originally to provide nursing care for expatriates. The new BNH Hospital complex became

operational in 1996.

Website: www.bnhhospital.com

Bumrungrad Hospital, 33 Sukhumvit 3 (Soi Nana Nua), Wattana, Bangkok, 10110

Established in 1980, Bumrungrad Hospital is the first hospital in Asia to be internationally

accredited by the US-based Joint Commission International.

Website: www.bumrungrad.com

Samitivej Hospital, 133 Sukhumvit 49, Klongtan Nua, Vadhana, Bangkok 10110

Samitivej Hospital opened in 1979. In 1999 Samitivej won a prestigious award from UNICEF, being

certified as a Mother and Baby Friendly Hospital.

Website: www.samitivej.co.th

DAILY NEEDS

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BANKING

Thai banks will usually need to see your passport to open a savings account, and your work permit

and a 1-year visa are required to open a checking account.

INTERNATIONAL BANKS

Citibank: 399 Interchange Bldg., Sukhumvit 21 Road (Asoke), Klongton Nua, Wattana,

Bangkok 10110

Website: www.citibank.co.th

HSBC: Bangkok Offshore Banking Unit (The only branch in Bangkok) HSBC Building, 968 Rama

IV Road, Silom, Bangrak, Bangkok 10500

Website: www.hsbc.co.th

Standard Charterd Bank: 90 North Sathorn Road, Silom, Bangrak, Bangkok 10500

Website: www.standardchartered.co.th

LOCAL COMMERCIAL BANKS

Bangkok Bank, 333 Silom Road, Bangrak, Bangkok 10500

Website: www.bangkokbank.com

Bank of Ayudhya, 1222 Rama 3 Road, Bangpongpang, Yannawa, Bangkok 10120

Website: www.krungsri.com

Kasikorn Bank, 1 Soi Rat Burana 27/1, Rat Burana Road, Rat Burana, Bangkok 10140

Website: www.kasikornbank.com

Siam Commercial Bank, 9 Ratchadapisek Road, Jatujak, Bangkok 10900

Website: www.scb.co.th

INTERNET, TELEPHONE & MOBILE

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INTERNET

There are 2 major providers and their service networks depend on location. Some places can apply

for both providers but some apartments/condos can apply for one only which depends on the

provider’s service coverage.

3 Broadband by TOT

Website: www.3bb.co.th

True Online by True Corporation

Website: www.trueonline.truecorp.co.th

HOME PHONE

TOT

Website: www.tot.co.th

True Online by True Corporation

Website: http://trueonline.truecorp.co.th

MOBILE PHONE

Thailand cell phone coverage is widespread with reception available in all areas except at the most

remote areas and isolated mountainous regions. Many overseas mobile phones will work in Thailand

provided they are GSM compatible, as Thailand features GSM 850 - 2100 networks

AIS

Website: www.ais.co.th

DTAC

Website: www.dtac.co.th

TrueMoveH

Website: http://truemoveh.truecorp.co.th

UTILITIES

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Electricity (Metropolitan Electricity Authority or MEA) : the electricity system is 220 volts x 50

cycles/sec. Billing is on monthly basis. Payment can be made at banks, some department stores,

7-Eleven, and post office.

Website: www.mea.or.th , call center 1130

Water (Metropolitan Waterworks Authority or MWA) : it is recommended not to drink tap water in

Thailand though it is adequate for bathing and teeth cleaning. Billing is on monthly basis. Payment

can be made at banks, some department stores, 7-Eleven, and post office.

Website: www.mwa.co.th , call center 1125

SHOPPING

SUPERMARKETS

IMPORTED GROCERIES

Foodland : open 24 hours a day

Website: www.foodland.co.th

Gourmet Market : located at Siam Paragon, The Emporium Department Store (10am-10pm)

Website: www.gourmetmarketthailand.com

Villa Market : numerous branches in central Bangkok. Opening hours vary.

Website: www.villamarket.com

HYPERMARKETS AND CONVENIENCE STORES

Big C (9am-11pm)

Website: www.bigc.co.th

Tesco Lotus (8am-10pm)

Website: www.tescolotus.com

Tops Market Place : Central and Robinson Department Stores, Opening hours vary

Website: www.tops.co.th

7-Eleven : Small convenient stores in every corner of Bangkok – open 24 hours

Website: www.7eleven.co.th

DEPARTMENT STORES

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Central Department Stores (10am-10pm)

Website: http://www.central.co.th/en/

The Emporium (9am-10pm)

Website: www.emporiumthailand.com/

Siam Paragon (10am-10pm)

Website: http://www.siamparagon.co.th/

HOME REPAIRS

Listed below are some of the home repair companies available in Thailand.

Electrical service: installing lighting, air conditioner, water pump, etc. and plumbing/welding

works

Website: http://bangkokelectric.byethost4.com

ServiceGenie: Offering services for home and office i.e. painting, carpentry, plumbing, etc.

Website: www.servicegenie.com

DOMESTIC HELP AND NANNIES

The most common and reliable channel to get the maid and nanny is through referral system. Your

colleague who is going to repatriate may need to find the new employee for his/her maid or nanny.

This way, you can ask for ex-employer personal opinion about such person. However, there are

some sources to look for these kinds of services as below:

Bangkok Nanny Center

Website: www.bangkoknanny.com

Children Booster Center and Nursery

Website: www.kidsquare.com

Nanny and Maid

Website: www.nannyandmaid.com

NETWORKING

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There are many clubs for networking, both socially and for business here in Thailand. Please find

some examples below:

American Chamber of Commerce (AMCHAM) : GPF Witthayu Tower A, 93/1 Wireless Road,

Lumpini, Pathumwan, Bangkok 10330

AMCHAM provides a point of exchange and coordination of efforts to improve business

conditions and opportunities for private Americans and American companies.

Website: www.amchamthailand.com

Australian Chamber of Commerce

Comprised of companies, businesses and individuals across a broad spectrum of industries and

services, AustCham Thailand has over 400 members.

Website: www.austchamthailand.com

British Chamber of Commerce.

With more than 600 member companies, the BCCT is a valuable resource for all those doing

business in Thailand.

Website: http://members.bccthai.com/

American Women’s Club of Thailand (AWC): 72/1 Sukhumvit Soi 38, Klong Toey, Bangkok 10110

Promoting friendship with Thais through social, cultural, and charitable activities.

Website: www.awcthailand.org

Australian New Zealand Women’s Group

For more than 50 years ANZWG has played a major part in the lives of many expatriate women

who have been lucky enough to reside in this fascinating yet sometimes challenging city.

Website: http://www.anzwg-bangkok.org/

British Club : 189 Suriwongse Road, Bangrak, Bangkok 10500

Family oriented social club which opens to members of all nationalities. Sport facilities and play

area are available.

Website: www.britishclubbangkok.org

BAMBI (Bangkok Mothers & Babies International)

Great for meeting other parents, to make new friends and join their play groups or activities.

Website: www.bambiweb.org

TRANSPORTATION

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As one of Southeast Asia’s travel gateways, Thailand has an excellent transportation infrastructure.

AIR TRAVEL

Suvarnabhumi International Airport can accommodate 45 million passengers per year and will

expand to handle up to 60 million in the future. Meanwhile other international and domestic airports

around the country offer international standard facilities and convenience to passengers. Further

information about Suvarnabhumi Airport is available on www.suvarnabhumiairport.com

Flying is the most convenient mode of transportation for travelling to Thailand, as visitors can fly to

Thailand on non-stop routes from many corners of the globe on both international and Thai airlines.

Furthermore, Thailand’s central location makes Thailand an ideal hub for exploring the rest of Asia.

In addition to the primary international airport located in Bangkok, visitors from abroad can fly to

Thailand on international flights destined for Chiang Mai, Phuket, Koh Samui, Krabi, and so on.

As the major hub for air travel in and around Asia, a number of low cost airlines now serve Thailand

for both domestic and international routes, and now flying to Thailand is both convenient and

inexpensive.

BTS SKYTRAIN

Currently there are two routes, the Sukhumvit Line and the Silom Line. They cover much of the

central city and its many commercial, residential and tourist areas, with extensions planned to

outlying areas.

Operating hours: from 6:00 am and 12:00 midnight

Frequency: - Service throughout the day, increased during rush hours.

Map and further information is available at www.bts.co.th

MRT SUBWAY

The MRT System is currently the only one subway route available and it is another fast and

reliable means of transport. The Chaloem Ratchamongkhon line runs between Hua Lamphong to

Bang Sue Station.

Operating hours: from 6:00 a.m. till midnight daily

Frequency: - Service throughout the day, increased during rush hours

Map and further information is available on www.bangkokmetro.co.th

TRAIN SERVICES

It is possible to travel inter-city by train but it could be slower than other travelling mode. Information

and timetables are available at Bangkok Railway Station Advance Booking Office at Tel. 1690 or 0-

2222- 0175. Website: www.railway.co.th

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TAXI SERVICES

Taxi meters are available in along major roads a n d in suburban areas. They a re air-conditioned,

reasonably comfortable and inexpensive. The fare starts with the set price at 35 Baht.

Hailing taxi when you are in the sub-street could be difficult. Pre-booked taxi service is available with

additional cost 20 Baht over the fare. Contact no. 1661, 1681. Please note that there can be a

language barrier as many of the drivers don’t speak much English.

LEASED CARS

There are many companies that offer wide range of car models and size for selection and some

companies have branches in many provinces. The documents required for leasing the car in Thailand

are as follows:

Passport

International Driver's License

Credit Card

Some popular car leasing companies are listed below:

Avis: http://www.avisthailand.com/EN/index.php

Budget: http://www.budget.co.th/default.aspx

Krungthai: http://www.krungthai.co.th

QC Leasing: http://www.qcleasing.com/th/aboutus.htm

Siam Rent a Car: http://www.siamrentacar.com/main/policy

PERSONAL CARS

You are required to have a valid work permit and visa to purchase a car along with some other financial

documents (i.e. salary slip, copy bank book, etc.) and you need to have your vehicle registered at

Department of Land Transport (www.dlt.go.th) which the car dealer or leasing company can assist

you to complete this process. However, the car registration needs to be renewed on yearly basis.

USEFUL CONTACT NUMBERS

EMERGENCY CONTACTS

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Tourist Police 1155

Police, Ambulance 191

Fire 199

MEDICAL NUMBERS

Bangkok 1719

BNH 02 632 2700

Bumrungrad 02 667 1175 or 02 667 2999

Samitivej 02 711 8181

OTHER USEFUL CONTACTS

Telephone Directory Assistance 1133

International calls 001 + country code + area code + phone number

International calls through operator 100

Internet / Cable TV 02 725 2525

Metropolitan Electricity Authority (MEA) 1130 or 02 254 9550

Metropolitan Water Works Authority (MWA) 1125 or 02 504 0123